Driving for long distances is something that thousands of drivers in the UK have to do each week.
Despite being a relatively compact country, we’ve got some big stretches of road here, which means that drivers often face many hours behind the wheel to get from A to B.
Finding the right car to take on a big drive is essential. It’ll make the journey more comfortable, ensuring that you reach your destination fresh and ready to go. Here, we’re going to take a look at some of the best cars for long-distance drivers.
Volkswagen Arteon
Volkswagen has a somewhat chequered past when it comes to saloon cars - its Phaeton famously didn’t quite hit the market with buyers, for instance. But Volkswagen seems to have turned the game around with the introduction of the Arteon, an upmarket and dynamically-styled saloon.
It’s the comfort of the Arteon which really impresses, as does its level of interior equipment. Its build quality is excellent too, while well-padded seats will ensure that no aches or pains will present themselves during your time with the Arteon.
Jaguar F-Pace
Though saloon cars might be what you think of first when Jaguar is mentioned, the British firm’s range of SUVs is actually one of the best choices when it comes to long-distance comfort. The F-Pace is its largest high-riding model, coming above the smaller E-Pace in terms of size.
It’s a really good mile-muncher of a car, with great ride quality meaning that it irons out the road ahead. Its efficient diesel engines perform well over long distances, too.
Land Rover Defender
Though the latest Land Rover Defender might already have established a solid reputation for its off-road abilities, it’s just as accomplished on the tarmac, too. Despite having a relatively bluff front end, the Defender manages to be quiet and refined - just what you want when you’re spending a few hours at the wheel.
Though we’d steer clear of the V8-powered versions if you’re going to be doing big mileage and don’t want to spend a fortune on fuel, the diesel variants are more than up to the job.
Peugeot 508
The 508 was the car that launched a whole new look and feel for Peugeot and, though it has been around for a little while now, continues to be an impressive and good-looking option.
Available as both a saloon and estate, the 508’s comfort-led approach means that it’ll be a welcome partner on any long journey. It’s economical, too, so that should mean you don’t spend too much time at the pumps.
Seat Leon
Finally, we have the Seat Leon. The Spanish firm’s most famous hatch has grown up for the most recent generation, with a classy interior meeting a refined and well-finished exterior design to create a car which feels far more upmarket than before.
It’s good to drive, too, but most importantly is quiet when travelling at motorway speeds. A range of assistance systems ensures that it keeps everything on the straight and narrow, too.
Audi A6
Audi’s A6 is one of the best in the business when it comes to long-distance driving. Its refined nature means that it naturally favours motorway driving, where its quiet cabin and well-judged suspension really come to the fore.
It’s also available as an estate - or Avant, in Audi-speak - which is a great option for those who need a little more luggage space. A fine range of engines is also there to accompany the A6, with turbocharged diesel options being the go-to choice for big-mileage drivers.
